Matt Rhead was the first player to go into the book after flattening keeper Dean Henderson following a free-kick into the Town box. After several minutes of treatment, Henderson was able to continue.

However, he was picking the ball out of his net in the 15th minute as City took the lead. Sam Habergham’s corner was met by Waterfall. His effort was blocked by Henderson, but only to Whitehouse, who smashed home the rebound to send the 27,000 City fans wild.

Shaun Whalley tried to haul the Shrews level midway through the half, but his effort from outside the box flew just wide.

Whitehouse went close again soon after. Danny Rowe led a counter-attack which saw him scamper almost the entire length of the pitch. His cross found Whitehouse and his header was fisted away by Henderson under pressure from Matt Green.

Lincoln City v Shrewsbury in the Checkatrade Trophy Final at Wembley (Image: CameraSport)

Just past the half-hour, Ryan Allsop kept the Imps in front with a stunning reflex save to keep out Omar Beckles’ header. The rebound dropped to James Bolton, but from a tight angle he hit the outside of the post.

Shrewsbury made a strong start to the second half, with Rhead blocking a goal-bound effort from Byrn Morris, while Allsop saved a drive from Nolan with his legs.

However, on the hour mark, the Imps wasted a golden opportunity to double their lead. Following a cross from the right, Whitehouse skilfully laid the ball back to Rhead, who shot over when he should have at least hit the target.

After that bout of pressure, Town struggled to create clear-cut chances in the second half as the Imps’ defence held firm.